Statement on Behalf of the Board of Trustees of Syracuse University

Board of Trustees Chairman Richard L. Thompson and Chairman of the Board of Trustees’ Athletics Committee Robert Miron today issued the following statement on behalf of the Board of Trustees.

The Syracuse University Board of Trustees takes very seriously the report of the NCAA Committee on Infractions received on Friday morning, March 6, 2015.

In May 2014, the Board established an Athletics Committee of the Board, which for the first time involved the Board in official oversight of the Department of Athletics. Through that Athletics Committee, the Board is carefully reviewing every aspect of the report and will be responding promptly, including the adoption of appropriate changes to policies, structures, and other areas as identified and appropriate. The Athletics Committee is also carefully reviewing the issues pertaining to the possible appeal of one or more parts of the decision of the Committee on Infractions.

The Board’s Executive Committee and the Board’s Athletics Committee have both met to discuss and consider these issues, and continue to confer this week with University leaders on appropriate responses. The entire Board of Trustees will confer next Tuesday, March 17 on the many issues raised in the NCAA report.

It was not until last Friday that the University and the Board could, under NCAA rules, comment publicly on the investigation. However, for many months the Board has been working closely with the new Chancellor to make changes in response to the serious issues identified in the report. Those changes include establishment of the Board Athletics Committee, which receives reports of athletics issues, including compliance matters, and transferring oversight of the Office of Athletics Compliance to the University’s General Counsel.

It is important to note that in working closely with Chancellor Syverud on these difficult matters, we have had an opportunity to see him effectively focus his time and energies in order to bring this long-standing matter and protracted process to conclusion. We commend him for that.

The Board of Trustees also concurs with the Chancellor that more action is required. Following the Board’s full consultation next week, the University expects to share promptly and publicly further information about additional steps being taken.

As a Board of Trustees our responsibilities demand that we focus on ensuring that the University’s academic reputation and values are sustained, and that we offer the best possible academic support for our student-athletes. It is our sincere desire to do all possible to ensure this outcome and celebrate the academic success of our student athletes.

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